SolarApp+ Adoption and Implementation Grant
The Illinois Climate Bank will offer grants to municipalities working to implement SolarAPP+. SolarAPP+ is a no-cost permitting software developed by National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to streamline permitting processes for standardized residential solar systems. The software works as either a standalone service or can be integrated with existing permitting software (Accela, EnerGov, E-TRAKiT). SolarAPP+ automates rooftop solar plan reviews and produces instant compliance approvals. SolarApp+ reduces permitting staff workload and streamlines approval.
Due: May 11, 2025 by 5:00 PM CDT
Residential Solar Outreach Grants
The Illinois Climate Bank will offer competitive grants to municipalities and nonprofits to: (1) provide intensive outreach and assistance to residents with low incomes applying for the Illinois Solar for All’s (ILSFA) Residential Solar (Small) Program, and (2) provide shared services to outreach and assistance grantees. The Illinois Solar for All Residential Solar (ILSFA) program provides no-cost solar system installations to income-qualified residents in 1–4-unit homes. Up to $500,000 per awardee is available, with a total of $2.6 million available in the first round.
The grants will fund two types of services. First, grants will be available for intensive customer outreach and support services to increase participation in the ILSFA Residential Solar (Small) program. This program provides income qualified residents with access to affordable on-site solar panels at no or low up-front costs, providing guaranteed savings on electric bills. These customer assistance services will reach beyond mere awareness and will provide personalized assistance to interested and participating residents at every step of the program’s process. Second, the program will offer funding for shared services to support organizations providing intensive customer outreach and support services. Municipalities and nonprofits with experience in solar-related outreach, home repair, and other housing-related programs are encouraged to apply.
Due: May 19, 2025 by 5:00 PM CDT